The Indian army plans to hold special training sessions for Kashmiri youth so that they can have careers in not just the army but also the CRPF and BSF, reports Aurangzeb Naqshbandi.

The Indian army plans to hold special training sessions for Kashmiri youth so that they can have careers in not just the army but also the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Border Security Force (BSF).

This is part of the army’s effort to integrate the youth of the state into the national mainstream.

“We will be imparting free training to aspiring candidates who are willing to hone their basic skills so that they can perform well in the selection process,” a Srinagar-based army official said.

The official said the training would include physical activities and tips for acquiring mental toughness besides coaching for th written test.

The army has planned a massive recruitment drive across Kashmir. The first such rally would be held in Baramulla district, a one-time militancy hub, on February 16. The number of vacancies for the army and territorial army (home and hearth) have also been increased this year.

“The popular opinion in Kashmir is increasingly turning against militancy. These recruitment rallies help in integrating the Kashmiri youth into the mainstream, besides providing them with employment opportunities,” the official claimed. Moreover, he said, the drive will also help the army fight militancy with effective local participation.

In the past few years, such rallies have received an overwhelming response from the Kashmiri youth with tens and thousands coming forward to seek jobs in the army. “The response in the last 2-3 years, despite the militant threat, is a testimony of the desire for peace and people’s unflinching allegiance to the nation. These youth defied the militant diktat and risked their lives,” added the official.